The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has reopened I-26 after it was closed for several weeks due to damage from Hurricane Helene. As of October 30, 2024, TDOT confirmed that the highway in Unicoi County is now accessible to all traffic, with the exception of oversized loads, following more than a month-long closure.
“This is a huge development, especially considering the closure of I-40 for commercial traffic. We continue to be proud of the crews working to make this possible, even as we know the work isn’t over until every road is repaired,” TDOT said.
From TDOT:
From mile marker 39 to mile marker 40, traffic will shift entirely to the westbound lanes, with one lane traveling each way. The westbound bridge has been given a temporary fix, allowing vehicles to safely cross the Nolichucky River. Work continues on a permanent repair on the eastbound side. Once the eastbound bridge repair is complete, traffic will be shifted to the eastbound lanes so the permanent repair can be done on the westbound bridge. Because the bridge is being shared by both directions of traffic, oversized loads CANNOT make it through.
To watch TDOT’s video on the I-26 reopening click here.
